Jumping through hoops
For many of our homeowner clients, securing planning permission is the most daunting part of their project especially when dealing with a listed building or in a heritage setting. The process can feel complex and unpredictably and I am not going to lie; it is.
At Chalk, we try to take the stress out of planning and de-risk the process. From early conversations with your local authority to managing the full submission, we try to make the process as smooth as possible. For example at Avonview House we engaged with the Conservation Officer very early in the process to discuss the bold design approach we might adopt to avoid a pastiche. This led to a relatively smooth process as we have the Conservation Officer's buy in from the very start.
Why Planning Matters
Planning can sometimes feel unpredictable and, for smaller homeowner projects, the requirements may even seem disproportionate. That said, I firmly believe a well-functioning planning system is essential — without it, we would quickly face chaos and the gradual loss of buildings that form such an important part of our heritage.
Planning permission ensures that development is carried out responsibly — protecting heritage, local character, the environment, and the interests of neighbours. Local authorities use planning to balance individual aspirations with the wider needs of the community.
When Do You Need It?
In most cases, planning permission is required for:
- Extensions or alterations that significantly change the external appearance of a building
- New dwellings or outbuildings
- Changes of use (for example, turning a barn into a home)
- Works to listed buildings or properties in conservation areas
Some minor works may fall under Permitted Development Rights, which allow certain changes without a full application. However, these rights are limited and often restricted in sensitive areas.
The Planning Application Process
Pre-application Advice – many councils offer guidance before you submit, helping to identify potential issues early.
Submission – a full application typically includes drawings, design statements, and supporting reports.
Consultation – neighbours and statutory bodies are invited to comment.
Decision – the planning officer assesses the proposal against local and national policy, usually within 8 weeks for a householder application.
Common Considerations
Planning officers will assess proposals against criteria such as:
- Impact on neighbours (privacy, daylight, outlook)
- Design quality and how the proposal fits with local character
- Heritage or conservation concerns
- Environmental and ecological impact
- Access, parking, and highways issues
Our Approach
We don’t just draw up plans and hope for the best. We:
Engage early – identifying risks and opportunities before you commit too far.
Design intelligently – balancing your ambitions with planning policy, heritage considerations, and local context.
Build strong applications – presenting proposals with clarity, supporting documents, and persuasive design statements.
Communicate clearly – acting as your advocate with planning officers and consultants.
Experience with Sensitive Sites
We have extensive experience working with listed buildings, including those at Grade I, as well as projects within conservation areas and sensitive rural settings where the planning process can be particularly challenging. Our heritage-led approach allows us to balance contemporary living with historic character, improving the chances of gaining consent.
With us managing the process, you can feel confident that:
1. Your application is thorough, well-structured, and professionally presented.
2. Potential objections are addressed before they become obstacles.
3. You have a partner who understands both your vision and the planning system.
Final Thoughts
While the UK planning system can seem like an obstacle, it’s designed to ensure projects are well considered and contribute positively to their setting. With clear advice and thoughtful design, gaining permission becomes less of a barrier — and more of an exciting step toward realising your project.
If you’re thinking about an extension, refurbishment, or new home and aren’t sure how to approach planning, we’d love to help. Our role is to guide you through each stage, so instead of worrying about policy and paperwork, you can focus on the excitement of creating your project.
